A Matter Of Choice

Magnet Schools Emphasize Diversity, Specific Student Interests.

August 13, 1995|By TERENCE SHINE Staff Writer

Palm Beach County has 22 magnet programs and will implement five new magnet schools this month.

Magnet schools are public schools with specialized programs designed to attract a diversity of students who are interested in a particular topic of study, such as science, business, criminal justice or the arts.

They allow for voluntary desegregation and give parents the opportunity to be involved with choosing the direction of their children's education.

For instance, Poinciana Elementary in Boynton Beach offers a math/science/technology program; S.D. Spady Elementary in Delray Beach has implemented a total Montessori program; and Atlantic Community High School in Delray Beach is known for its international baccalaureate program.

The district believes this flexibility in curriculum ultimately will improve education for all.

Here are some common questions both parents and students have about magnet programs:

Q. How does my child get into a magnet school?

A. Apply. Applications are available at each magnet school.

Applications for the new magnet schools are available at every school in the district or from the District Administrative Center at 3320 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach.

Q. Are there admission criteria for magnet schools?

A. Yes. The criteria take into consideration the appropriate grade level, interest and application, building capacity and racial and gender balance.

Q. After we apply for one of the magnet schools, what happens?

A. First, students are electronically selected at random from the pool of applicants. Students attending a school designated as a new magnet school will have priority access to that school.

Second, if your child is accepted you will be notified in writing and supplied with registration forms to be completed and returned to the magnet school.

Third, parent and children also must sign a "Contract of Commitment" indicating that the child will attend the magnet school for one full year and follow guidelines.

Q. Are there any special fees if my children attend one of the magnet schools?

A. No.

Q. If my child is attending a school that has been designated as a new magnet do we have other options?

A. Yes. Students who do not choose to participate in the magnet program can "Opt-Out" and will be given choices for other comprehensive schools. The Opt-Out request form will be available at your current school.

Q. Will transportation be provided to both magnets and Opt-Out schools?

A. Yes. The district provides free transportation for students who live more than two miles from their school. If a student wants to attend a magnet school outside their particular transportation zone they can do so but must provide their own transportation to the magnet school or to a pickup point within the zone.